Tensions Rise on Lebanese Southern Front as Conflict Escalates
The situation on the Lebanese southern front has taken a turn for the worse, with tensions rising following a short period of cautious calm. The border villages have been particularly affected, leading to a significant number of displaced people. Lebanon’s caretaker social affairs minister, Hector Hajjar, recently visited the region to assess the situation and provide support to those forced to leave their homes.
Escalating conflicts in previously less affected areas have resulted in a staggering 72,436 displaced individuals. During his tour of several towns, Minister Hajjar witnessed the devastating impact of the conflict firsthand. Religious leader Elias Kfoury expressed concern over the complete paralysis of movement in the region, with schools closed and official transactions and security offices relocated to Nabatieh governorate. The Marjayoun-Khardali-Nabatieh road is also at risk due to recent bombings by Israeli drones.
Minister Hajjar’s visit included stops in Rmeish, Ain Ebel, and Hanin, culminating in a visit to the new shelter at the Tyre National School. He assured the affected population that necessary preparations would be made in case the security situation deteriorated further. This commitment to support the Lebanese people leaving unsafe areas is crucial in providing them with much-needed assistance during this challenging time.
On Monday afternoon, sirens sounded in seven Israeli settlements in the Upper Galilee amid fears of drone infiltration from Lebanon. Israeli outposts and settlements along the Lebanese border were targeted, while several southern Lebanese villages faced air and ground bombing as well as missile strikes. The Israeli army reported an anti-armor missile launched from Lebanese territory towards Metula in the Upper Galilee.
Hezbollah announced its resumption of targeting Israeli military outposts, including a direct hit on the Hadb Al-Bustan outpost. The conflict escalated further when an Israeli drone fired two rockets on the border village of Kfarkila. Direct artillery shelling reached the outskirts of Bint Jbeil, the Maroun Al-Ras village, and the outskirts of Tayr Harfa village. Israel has issued a warning to Hezbollah, stating that if it does not retreat behind the borders, a full-scale war is likely to occur in Lebanon.
In response to the escalating situation, Israel has made strategic military moves. Some troops that were previously stationed in Gaza have been prepared for rotation to the northern border with Lebanon. Israel is determined not to allow the situation on the Lebanese front to continue, and the coming six-month period is deemed critical. Israeli reconnaissance planes have been observed flying intensively over southern villages, conducting surveillance flights at medium altitudes over the Hasbaya district.
The Israeli warplanes have flown nonstop over villages in the western and central sectors, extending to the coast and above Tyre city. Flare bombs were dropped during these flights over border villages near the Blue Line. Additionally, Israeli fighter jets conducted airstrikes near the towns of Al-Dhahirah and Al-Jabeen, although no human casualties were reported.
The heightened tensions have had a significant impact on the residents of the Arqoub and Hasbaya areas. Many chose to stay home on New Year’s Eve due to concerns about potential attacks on their villages. The presence of army and security forces actively patrolling the region further intensified these fears.
As the conflict continues to escalate, it is crucial for international actors to intervene and find a peaceful resolution. The people of Lebanon deserve stability and security, and it is imperative that steps are taken to de-escalate the situation. The coming months will be critical in determining the future of the region, and it is hoped that diplomatic efforts can bring about a lasting peace.